How 911 Built Utah Hockey | Salt Lake City News

0:00So, check it. The events of September 11, 2001 had a ripple effect that still being felt today, even in the world of hockey out in. Utah. A former Marine and firefighter named Corey Lingelbach was motivated by that day to join the Air Force Reserve at Hill Air Force Base. That move brought him back to Utah, and over the past two decades, his passion for hockey has led him to build up the sport there. Lingelbach's journey into hockey actually started way back in Pennsylvania, but 9-11 was the catalyst that brought him to Utah. After serving in the Marines and then working as a firefighter, he found that hockey wasn't as accessible in Utah as he'd hoped. He decided to do something about it, starting out by sharpening skates from a mobile trailer to help players avoid long drives. This hustle eventually led him to open up a full-fledged hockey shop called Hockey Stops in Ogden, partnering with a former customer. It's a business built on competitive pricing and solid customer service, especially when it comes to keeping those blades sharp.

1:00It's become a hub for the hockey community, with veteran players and active military personnel bringing their kids through the doors. Now, Lingelbach and his partner have even helped organize a 9-11 never forget hockey tournament happening in Park City. It's a way to honor the past, while also fostering the growth of the sport he loves. He sees the expansion of hockey in Utah as something pretty amazing to be a part of. It's a while turn of events, all set in motion by that unforgettable day, 25 years ago. Lingelbach himself admits that without 9-11, he might never have ended up back in Utah and involved in building up the hockey scene. The tournament is running through Sunday, and it's free to attend if you want to check it out. Salt Lake City News today, powered by AI bringing you what matters.